Why is it hard to conceive after 40? 8 ways to maintain healthy fertility

New Delhi,UPDATED: Jun 17, 2024 14:26 IST

There has been a noticeable shift in societal dynamics as individuals choose to focus more on achieving their professional goals and financial strength while family planning takes a backseat. Thus, we witness many, today, exploring parenthood routes in their early forties. Attention towards fertility boosters and positive lifestyle changes is gaining much-needed prominence. During this period, it is essential to recognise the biological factors that might indicate obstacles. These factors include hormonal imbalances, irregular menstrual cycles, a natural decline in fertility due to decreasing egg/sperm quantity and quality, and an increased likelihood of chromosomal abnormalities.

India Today spoke with Dr Vandana Bhatia, Fertility Expert, Nova IVF Fertility, Vasant Vihar to get more insights.

Fertility gradually decreases beginning at age 32 and even more rapidly after age 37. An individual's peak reproductive years are between the late teens and late 20s. However, with care and monitoring, many can achieve pregnancy in their 40s.

Following are a few tips to improve fertility:

Good Food, Good Reproductive Health: Improve your fertility rates by keeping a check of your physical health. Steer clear of refined, processed foods loaded with added sugars, as these can make it more difficult to conceive. Instead, incorporate fresh foods rich in vitamins and minerals and increase folate consumption into your diet. These nutrients are essential for supporting your reproductive health and maintaining one’s overall health. Additionally, Reducing red meat consumption, eliminating processed foods, and focusing on meals rich in whole foods are also recommended.

Track Your Periods: It is crucial to pay heed to your ovulation cycle. Your period can offer valuable insights into your fertility. A regular period typically indicates consistent ovulation, which is a positive sign for your fertility health.

Probiotic: Addition to your diet: In addition to maintaining overall health, it's important to ensure your body's microbiome is in good shape. Although in its investigative stage, studies suggest that microbiome dysfunction may contribute to various issues, including autoimmune diseases, mental illnesses, and fertility problems. Incorporate a probiotic in your daily routine in order to tackle minor roadblocks head on.

Phone, outside your bedroom: Using your phone in bed disrupts sleep patterns and can negatively affect fertility. Studies on middle-aged female mice have shown that disturbances in natural rhythms lead to irregular reproductive cycles, and researchers believe these findings may be relevant to human fertility as well. To enhance your reproductive health, keep technology out of the bedroom and create a calming, tech-free sleep environment.

Smart Fitness - Active & Balanced: Staying physically active most days of the week can support your fertility journey. However, excessive exercise or frequent strenuous workouts might interfere with reproductive functions.

Healthy BMI: Your weight can significantly impact your chances of conceiving. Research indicates that women who are overweight may take twice as long to get pregnant compared to those with a normal body mass index (BMI). On the other side, being underweight could double the time it takes to conceive. Women with a BMI under 18 might experience irregular periods or stop ovulating altogether, which can hinder pregnancy.

Time to De-Stress: For women, particularly those trying to conceive after 35, managing a busy life with numerous responsibilities can be overwhelming. Prioritising relaxation is crucial for both mental and physical well-being. It's essential to identify effective ways to unwind and alleviate stress. Take charge of your health by dedicating time to relax and rejuvenate, ensuring a balanced and holistic approach to your fertility journey.

Regular checkups: The most effective way to avoid complications during pregnancy is to consult your family fertility expert and get a health screening done. Regular checkups can offer guidance on the best strategies to minimise these risks while pregnant. If you have questions about how to conceive, especially with an underlying condition, taking care of your body is a crucial first step to optimise fertility.